Randall Standridge (b.1976) received his Bachelor's of Music Education from Arkansas State University. During this time, he studied composition with Dr. Tom O'Connor, before returning to Arkansas State University to earn his Master's in Music Composition, studying with Dr. Tom O'Connor and Dr. Tim Crist. In 2001, he began his tenure as Director of Bands at Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg, Arkansas. He left this post in 2013 to pursue a career as a full-time composer and marching arts designer.In addition to his career as a composer, Mr. Standridge is the owner and editor for Randall Standridge Music, LLC and Grand Mesa Marching. He is in demand as a drill designer, music arranger, and colorguard designer for the marching arts, as well as a freelance artist/photographer and writer. He lives in Jonesboro, Arkansas with his family.Read Randall's full bio hereIn this episode, we discuss:Randall's earliest inspirations to be creativeBecoming a composer "by accident" His influences as a composer & what he's listening to right nowWhy he doesn't have a favorite type of ensemble to write for.Remaining creative during the COVID-19 pandemicRandall's music notation software of choiceHow working as a band director influenced his writingWhat influenced his decision to step away from teachingBalancing work, family, and personal well-beingMaking the decision to start up Randall Standridge Music, LLC, and begin self-publishingWriting for "modular wind ensemble"Planning his first album, A New Day DawnsWriting socially conscious music and the importance of a composer's intentRandall's love of horror literature and "the stupidest thing he's ever done" (His words, not mine!)Randall's Links:WebsiteA New Day DawnsSocial MediaFacebookTikTokInstagramTwitterLinks from topics discussed:Tom O'ConnorJohn WilliamsDanny ElfmanYanniEarth, Wind & FireTrixie MattelWill StrattonOmar ThomasBrian BalmagesPrecious Lord, Take My HandA New Day DawnsThe Witching HourA Christmas Tale: Beware the KrampusThe PresentsMusic included in this episode:Herwig - FreedomStandridge - Vanishing Point